The must-see music events of summer 2018

For music fans, summer can’t come fast enough. Festivals have started unveiling their line-ups and tickets are going fast. If you’re looking for a new festival to head to this year, we’ve got the ultimate list of ones you should consider across the globe.

Whether you want to find something that’s close to home or really go on an adventure, these eight festivals promise to liven up your summer plans.

As the biggest outdoor music festival in Japan, Fuji Rock more than deserves its place on this list. It features more than 200 international and Japanese artists and boasts an amazing seven main stages for you to enjoy. The line-up is still being updated but among the artists already announced you can find Bob Dylan, Skrillex, Fishbone, James Bay, Greensky Bluegrass, and N.E.R.D. As it’s held at the famous sky resort Naeba, there’s plenty of options of accommodation that’ll take you from the opening party to the closing fireworks.

When you’re looking for somewhere cool and laidback where you can enjoy a vibrant mix of music, head to Norway. Over 60,000 music lovers head to this designation to listen to both international stars and up-and-coming talent. Among the top bulled artists this year are Arcade Fire, Kendrick Lamar, Arctic Monkeys, and Lykke Li. Close to the centre of Oslo, you can even spend a few days exploring Norway before you embrace the festival atmosphere.

Sasquatch

Where: Washington, US

When: 25-27 March

Sasquatch has become a must-attend event for US based music fans and it’s been growing in popularity with international visitors too. It boasts music from a huge range of genres but indie-rock bands is where some of the biggest names lie. In 2018 you can watch the likes of Bon Iver, The National, Modest Mouse, Grizzly Bear, Explosions in the Sky, and Tyle, The Creator. As it takes place over Memorial Weekend, the Sasquatch always attracts busy crowds and a fun, lively atmosphere.

Rock Werchter

Where: Werchter, Belgium

When: 5-8 July

If you’re a fan of rock music, this festival in Belgium will fill you with joy. It’s got a range of musical acts, including Muse, Queens of The Stone Age, Alice in Chains, The Killers, London Grammar, Pearl Jam, and Arctic Monkeys on the Main Stage alone and the other three stages mean you’re sure to find an act that you’ll love. Aside from the music Rock Werchter has an incredible atmosphere.

Shambhala Music Festival

Where: Nelson, Canada

When: 10-13 August

If you’re keen to experience an independent festival that celebrates music and art, this could be the perfect festival for you. It’s become a highlight for electronic music fans every year. When it comes to music, there’s already an exciting mix of artists, including REZZ, Dizzee Rascal, Claude VonStroke, Justin Martin, and Camo & Krooked. Off stage there’s plenty happening too, from interactive performance games to yoga classes.

Electric Zoo

Where: New York, US

When: 31 August – 2 September

For dance music fane, Electric Zoo turns Randall’s Island, New York, into paradise. It’s the tenth edition of the festival and it’s celebrating with a packed line-up from RAZZ to Mija. Over 30 acts have already been unveiled but expect more as the date of the festival draws nearer. Some of the biggest DJs in the industry will keep you dancing through the night and you’re just a stone’s throw away from New York City.

Clokenflap Festival

Where: Hong Kong

When: 9-11 November

Celebrating a decade in operation this year, Clokenflap Festival in Hong Kong is the biggest music even in the area. Featuring alongside the music, which includes everything from international stars to local talent, you can also find films, art installations and much more. It’s the ideal festival to close the season with and while the line-up has yet to be announced, you can expect to see at least several big names on there, the likes of Kid Ink, Stormzy, Cosmospeople, and Kaiser Chiefs took to the stage.

Secret Solstice

Where: Reykjavik, Iceland

When: 21-24 June

Celebrate in the midnight sun on the magical island of Iceland this year. Secret Solstice should be on your festival bucket list due to the location alone, but it offers plenty more besides, whether you choose to stay at a hotel or camp. The line-up, which boasts the likes of Slayer, Gucci Mane, Clean Bandit, and Death From Above so far, offers plenty of variety for music lovers. Over the four days, you can even head out on excursions to see some of Iceland’s top tourist attractions and you can even party inside a glacier all night.